What to Do in Ubud: Discover Art, Nature, and Adventure

If you're planning a trip to Bali and wondering what to do in Ubud, we have some recommendations for you. Nestled in the heart of Bali, Ubud is like a perfect blend of peaceful nature, traditional Balinese culture, thrilling adventures, and artistic soul.

Ubud will always have something fresh and unforgettable to offer. So, pack your bags, charge your camera, and let us take you through the best bali adventure activities in Ubud!

Why Choose Ubud for Your Bali Getaway?

Imagine waking up to the sound of chirping birds and a gentle breeze rustling through green rice paddies. That’s the kind of peaceful morning you’ll find in Ubud. While the southern beaches like Kuta and Seminyak buzz with crowds and nightlife, Ubud offers a totally different vibe.

It’s the kind of place where time slows down, where every breath feels lighter, and where you can actually hear yourself think. Perfect for those who crave peaceful mornings, quiet afternoons, and evenings filled with magic.

Ubus is also known as the cultural and artistic heart of Bali. You’ll stumble upon hidden temples tucked into the jungle, watch traditional Balinese dance performances under the stars, and wander into artisan markets filled with handcrafted treasures.

Need a break? Sip a cup of local coffee in a charming jungle-view café, or sink into a spa chair overlooking the treetops while you listen to the sounds of nature.

But don’t think it’s all about quiet walks and meditation (though you can totally have that too). Ubud is also an adventure lover’s playground. Want to feel your heart race? Try white-water rafting along wild rivers, kayaking through hidden canyons, or ATV riding through muddy jungle trails and remote villages.

Ubud has this incredible ability to recharge your spirit and ignite your sense of adventure, all in one place. It’s where Bali’s heart beats the loudest, not with noise, but with depth, soul, and unforgettable beauty.

Top 10 Things to Do in Ubud

From wandering through sacred forests and ancient temples to cycling past emerald rice terraces and splashing through jungle rivers, every activity in Ubud feels like a scene from a dream. Let’s dive into the top 10 must-do activities in Ubud that will make your trip truly special!

1. Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Right in the center of Ubud, this forest is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques that freely roam around ancient temple ruins and thick jungle paths. It’s both spiritual and a little wild! Be respectful, keep your snacks hidden, and enjoy being up close to nature and Balinese culture at once.

2. Conquer Bali’s Wild Side: White Water Rafting on the Ayung River

Water rafting is one of the most fun and refreshing ways to explore Ubud’s natural beauty. Rafting down the Ayung River with Surya Bintang Adventures gives you epic views of lush jungle cliffs, waterfalls, and stone carvings. The rapids are safe for beginners but still thrilling enough to make you scream (in a good way!).

From the moment you step into your raft, the adventure begins. You’ll be cruising along Bali’s longest rafting route, a 12-kilometer journey that winds through stunning scenery for a full 2.5 to 3 hours.

That means more rapids to conquer, more jungle views to soak in, and more time to laugh, splash, and feel completely alive. No short loops or rushed rides here, designed for maximum fun and lasting memories.

But what really sets this experience apart? It’s the team behind the adventure. Surya Bintang Adventure is the only operator in Bali with a full in-house crew of 30 licensed, professional rafting guides. We’re certified, highly trained, and bursting with energy. You’ll feel completely safe and fully entertained as they lead the way through swirling rapids, jungle tunnels, and secret waterfalls.

And here’s the cool part: your entire rafting adventure will be captured in epic style with an exclusive on-river drone documentation service. Yes, you’ll get cinematic-quality footage of you paddling through rapids, laughing with your crew, and cruising past some of the most jaw-dropping river scenery Bali. This way, you don’t have to worry about bringing a camera or missing a moment.

As an adrenaline seeker, of course, safety and comfort come first. You’ll be geared up with the latest international-standard equipment, from helmets to life vests, all designed for both performance and peace of mind.

And behind the scenes, there’s always a professional rescue team on standby, so you can focus on the fun, knowing you’re in good hands.

Ready to trade the ordinary for the unforgettable? Book your Ayung River rafting adventure with us today and discover Bali’s wild beauty from a whole new angle!

3. Jungle River Kayaking in Bali’s Best-Kept Secret Spots

If you want something more peaceful than rafting but still adventurous, kayaking is a perfect choice. Paddle through calm jungle waters, explore hidden spots, and feel completely surrounded by nature. It's also a great activity for couples or solo travelers wanting to unwind while staying active.

White-water kayaking is the only experience of its kind in Bali. Here, you won’t be floating on a calm lake or slowly paddling in the ocean. Instead, you’ll be gliding through wild jungle rivers, surrounded by towering cliffs, lush greenery, and pure, untouched nature.

What makes jungle kayaking so special? For starters, your seat is right at the water's edge, so the thrill is next-level. Every splash, every current, every twist in the river hits harder and feels more real. It’s like the river is speaking directly to you.

You’ll kayak past ancient rock carvings, the kind created by Balinese artisans hundreds of years ago. Imagine paddling beside moss-covered canyon walls, under a canopy of jungle vines, and around bends that reveal secret waterfalls and serene riverbanks. It’s a journey through a natural masterpiece, and it’s insanely Instagrammable!

Speaking of guides, you’re in excellent hands. Each of our trips is led by professional safety-certified guides and a rescue team on standby. They’re not only trained to keep you safe, but also fun, friendly, and passionate about showing you the wild side of Bali.

Even if it’s your first time kayaking, you’ll feel confident, supported, and ready to take on the river. Ready to paddle into the unknown? Book your Jungle River Kayaking experience today and unlock one of Bali’s most unforgettable treasures!

4. Off-Road ATV Riding Through Bali’s Scenic Heart

You can also feel like a true explorer by ATV riding by Surya Bintang Adventures through Ubud’s muddy trails, bamboo forests, and picturesque villages. It’s fun, messy, and gives you a whole new perspective on the beauty of rural Bali.

As you tear through the 7-kilometer trail (with zero backtracking!), you’ll encounter a mesmerizing mix of Bali’s best-kept secrets. Imagine roaring through bamboo forests, splashing across clear jungle rivers, weaving between banana groves, and getting up-close with ancient temples and moss-covered caves that feel straight out of a movie set.

Worried about safety? Don’t be. This ride runs on modern ATVs, equipped with top-tier safety gear and led by professional, highly experienced guides who know the jungle like the back of their hand. Before you start, Surya Bintang Adventure Team will give you a full safety briefing and get you comfortable with your ride.

Prefer to take the journey at your own pace? You’re covered. With our Private Ride Option, you can go solo or with your own group, making the adventure 100% exclusive.

This adventure takes place on a fully private trail, owned and managed by Surya Bintang Adventures. That means no lines, no traffic, and no sharing the track with other tour groups. It’s just your crew and the trail, uninterrupted and wide open.

Ready to ride through Bali’s scenic heart and leave the crowds behind? Book your off-road ATV Riding with Surya Bintang Adventures today and experience the ultimate jungle ride you’ll never forget.

5. A Peaceful Ride Through Rice Terraces & Villages

Ubud’s rice terraces are world-famous for a reason. And the best way to enjoy them? On two wheels! Cycling tours usually take you through traditional villages, quiet back roads, and breathtaking green landscapes. You'll meet friendly locals, learn about farming, and take postcard-perfect photos.

A cycling tour with Surya Bintang Adventures is the perfect way to soak in the island’s natural beauty while pedaling through peaceful villages, lush rice fields, and scenic countryside.

This 2 to 2.5-hour guided tour is a full-package experience designed to make your day unforgettable. You’ll be fully equipped with complete safety gear, accompanied by a professional cycling guide, and covered with insurance for peace of mind.

After the ride, refresh and recharge with a hot shower, and enjoy access to clean changing rooms, lockers, and even fresh towels, soap, and shampoo. But the best part? Your adventure ends with a delicious lunch at the Surya Bintang Adventures restaurant, where you can choose from mouth-watering options like crispy duck, grilled chicken, or traditional Indonesian fried rice.

So why wait? Book your cycling adventure today and discover the island’s hidden charm one pedal at a time!

6. Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Even if you don't do the cycling tour, this place deserves its own spot. Tegallalang is one of Bali's most iconic views. You can stroll the terraces, sip coconut water at a café overlooking the hills, or try the famous "Bali swing" for a photo that will wow your Instagram followers. Definitely a view you won’t find elsewhere!

7. Wander Through Ubud Art Market

Ready to bring home some handmade souvenirs? This bustling market is full of colorful textiles, wood carvings, silver jewelry, and other Balinese crafts. Bargaining is part of the fun, so don’t be shy. It’s also a great place to soak up Ubud’s creative atmosphere.

8. Relax with a Jungle Spa or Traditional Massage

After a long day of adventuring, treat yourself to a traditional Balinese massage in an open-air jungle spa. Picture this: the scent of frangipani, the sound of birds, and a river flowing nearby. Total bliss!

9. Watch a Traditional Balinese Dance

Head to Ubud Palace in the evening and catch a live performance of the Barong or Legong dance. These dances are rich in storytelling, costume, and music. You’ll get a deeper understanding of Balinese culture and it’s honestly mesmerizing to watch!

10. Take a Cooking Class

Love Balinese food? Learn how to make it yourself! Many local cooking schools start with a visit to the traditional market, followed by hands-on instruction on how to prepare dishes like nasi goreng, satay, and sambal. It’s fun, delicious, and you get to eat what you cook!

How to Get Around Ubud

Now that you know what to do in Ubud, you’re probably wondering how to get around. Ubud is spread out, and while you can walk around the town center, many amazing spots are located in remote areas.

Options for getting around:

●      Scooter rental: Cheap and adventurous, but not recommended if you're not an experienced rider.

●      Taxi apps (like Grab/Gojek): Limited in Ubud, especially in outer areas.

●      Bicycle: Great for short distances and scenic rides.

●      Private driver or tour service: The most convenient, comfortable, and safest option.

If you're looking for a reliable transportation service with local knowledge, friendly guides, and affordable prices, then Surya Bintang Adventures is the way to go.

Our drivers are punctual, speak good English, and know all the best hidden spots in Ubud. Plus, we offer custom tours, adventure packages (like rafting, ATV, cycling), and airport transfers. Want to create your own day trip itinerary? We’ll help you plan everything!

Ready to Discover the Magic of Ubud?

Ubud is a dream destination that balances every traveler's need for fun, culture, and beauty. If you're still wondering what to do in Ubud, remember this: there's no right or wrong way to explore this enchanting place.

Whether you want to explore rice terraces on a bike, feel the rush of white water rafting, or get muddy on an ATV ride, Surya Bintang Adventures is here to make it all happen smoothly and safely.

We offer full-service adventure packages with high-quality facilities and certified local guides who make every trip both exciting and secure. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, or groups.

If you're ready to turn your Ubud trip into the adventure of a lifetime, reach out to Surya Bintang Adventures today and let the fun begin!

FAQ

Is Ubud good for solo travelers?

Absolutely! Ubud is safe, welcoming, and full of solo-friendly activities like yoga, art classes, and cycling tours. It’s also a great place to meet other travelers.

How many days should I spend in Ubud?

Ideally, spend at least 3 to 5 days to fully enjoy the art, nature, and adventure that Ubud offers.